Philadelphia

Eagles' Malcolm Jenkins Writes Washington Post Op-ed Outlining Goals for Social Change

In the op-ed, Jenkins, the Eagles' defensive captain, outlined his goals for change within America and what exactly he is doing and encouraging others to do to reach those goals.

Eagles safety Malcolm Jenkins has been one of the more outspoken players around the NFL in recent years when it comes to talking about the social injustice he sees.

He has raised his fist during National Anthem performances, journeyed to Capitol Hill, appeared on TV shows and worked within the community, among other things, to advocate for change.

The latest step in Jenkins' mission is writing an op-ed, which appeared in Sunday's edition of The Washington Post.

In the op-ed, Jenkins, the Eagles' defensive captain, outlined his goals for change within America and what exactly he is doing and encouraging others to do to reach those goals.

Highlights include:
• Along with retired WR Anquan Boldin, the creation of a Players Coalition to voice for change within the criminal-justice system. The goal is to use the forum their voices have as pro athletes to bring the issue to the forefront of conversation.

• The push to change the money-bail system. Jenkins cites an example of a Houston man who was arrested and eventually had charges against him dropped, but was forced to spend two months in jail in the meantime as he was unable to afford bail.

• The push for clean-slate legislation in Pennsylvania that would seal nonviolent misdemeanors after 10 years. Jenkins referenced the case of a Philadelphia business owner who is unable to grow his business as misdemeanor convictions from 13 years ago have stigmatized him.

• Jenkins thanked Eagles teammate Chris Long for support, saying that while Long doesn't necessarily agree with Jenkins putting his fist up for the National Anthem, he agrees with Jenkins' push for change. Jenkins and Long have traveled together around Philadelphia communities to explore, observe and try to find outlets for change.

Following last Sunday's win over the Giants, Jenkins spoke at great length about the Eagles' demonstration prior to the game, the need for change in the community and lashed out at President Donald Trump for recent comments.

Jenkins is not the only local athlete to speak out recently on these issues.

Flyers star winger Wayne Simmonds spoke out last week on the need to focus beyond kneeling and look deeper into the larger issues at hand.

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